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True North Cruises – Kimberley Snapshot
(17 days) Perth to Kununurra
Map of True North Cruises – Kimberley Snapshot
Before embarking the True North Cruise 7 Night Kimberley Snapshot explore Perth, Margaret River and Broome.


Day 1 Perth

Perth International Airport to Perth City – Private Car/Driver Transfer

Perth is a scenic and sophisticated city, renowned for its abundant sunshine, relaxed lifestyle and easy-going manner. The city’s modern skyline blends with magnificent colonial architecture, housing excellent retail outlets. King Street, a historic and lovingly restored commercial precinct, is known for its fashion houses, cafes, art galleries and specialist bookstores. The city’s prime position, flanking the broad reaches of the Swan River, provides an excellent setting for enjoying alfresco dining in one of the many outdoor restaurants and cafes. Visitors to Perth also have a choice of more than 80 kilometres of white sandy beaches within easy reach.

COMO The Treasury, Perth 

Accommodation in a Heritage Balcony Room for 2 nights – Includes Full Breakfast, in-room private bar replenished daily, welcome drink on arrival.

This property is located in Perth’s 140 year old State Buildings, which form part of the Cathedral Square development. This is one of the most significant heritage precincts in Western Australia, revitalised by leading architect, Kerry Hill. It is 650 metres to Barrack Street Jetty and 450 metres to Elizabeth Quay. The elegant and contemporary styled guest rooms and suites feature original high ceilings, cornicing, handcrafted European furniture, oversized windows, German deep-form Kaldewei Duo bathtubs, travertine stone tiles, twin vanities, heated floors and towel rails and balconies. Facilities include a lounge and library, which provide a social hub for guests and locals.

Day 2 Perth

Luxury Outback Tours, Perth

Pinnacles Day Tour – Shared Small Group Tour Hotel pickup and dropoff, morning tea, lunch, entry fee to Nambung National Park.

Your 9 hour will travel to the Pinnacles Desert, via Lancelin. Visit to the Pinnacles Desert Discovery Interpretive Centre, then drive into the Pinnacles Desert and tour along a 4km trail where you will have the unique experience of walking among the fascinating phenomenon of the Pinnacles. In geologic terms the pinnacles are a modern phenomenon, many geologist and experts do wonder of their mysterious formation and age. Some say the Pinnacles were formed as recently as 10,000 years ago to 500,000 years. After lunch at Cervantes drive to Thirsty Point to walk along the beautiful white sandy beach, view sparkling aquamarine waters, and the nearby Cervantes Islands. Then travel on to Lake Thetis to view the Stromatolites, one of the earliest forms of life on our planet, and another of nature’s wonders. Return to Perth, where you will be transferred to your Perth city accommodation.

Day 3 Margaret River

Rental Car, Full Size Sedan (FCAR) Group E Metro & Country – Downtown Inclusive for 4 Days Rental

Pick-up and Drop-off:  Perth City

Drive Perth to Margaret River (Yallingup – Cape Lodge)

255 kms/159 miles (approx. driving time 3 hours)

Travel south on State Route 2 followed by National Route 1 towards Bunbury. If time permits, visit Fremantle named in Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2016. Fremantle has long been renowned for its eclectic mix of arty and alternative types. Fremantle’s streets buzz with the song of buskers, the sidewalks fill with a wild collection of art and music floats out from trendy cafes and bars. Enjoy a coffee along the ‘Cappuccino Strip’ or trendy Wray Avenue, South Terrace and High Street. Enjoy fish and chips at the Fishing Boat Harbour and stroll along the boardwalk to Bathers Beach. Visit the Fremantle Markets, Fremantle Fishing Boat Harbour, WA Maritime Museum, and Fremantle Prison.

If time permits, stop in Mandurah, the gateway to the many other attractions of the hinterland including Pinjarra; home of the Hotham Valley Tourist Railway which offers scenic Steam Train excursions throughout the State; and the vast timber forests of the Darling Scarp. Many Western Australians and regular visitors from around the world have built luxury holiday and retirement homes along the waterways and in the modern residential canal developments. Regular boat cruises of the waterways depart daily from the dock adjacent to the Mandurah Tourist Bureau. Watch bottlenose dolphins playing joyfully in the canals, estuary and rivers.

Stop in Bunbury, well known for its pristine beaches it is a popular holiday spot for Western Australians and offers the visitor a wide range of local tours, cruises and special events. Numerous wildlife parks, art galleries and holiday attractions provide plenty of things to do and for the more active you can swim with the dolphins (November-April) off Koombana beach most mornings. Take a stroll around the streets to spot the street murals (pick up a map from the local visitor centre). There are plenty of cafes and boutiques along the way if you need a rest! Travel along the Bussell Highway (State Route 10) to Margaret River.

Stop at Busselton, Western Australia’s premier seaside resort town and holiday mecca with golden beaches, crystal clear waters and abundant water based activities to take part in. Visit the old wooden Busselton Jetty, almost 2 kms in length. The first stage was built in 1865 and further extensions were made until 1965. Abandoned by the government in 1972 and damaged by fire and cyclones through the years, the jetty is now cared for by a local Jetty Preservation Society and provides a pleasant place to take a stroll, enjoy the fresh clean air, relax, or just dangle a fishing line in the water and hope that no fish come along to disturb your reverie. The Busselton Jetty Underwater Observatory is one of Western Australia’s must-see eco-tourism attractions. Located near the end of the jetty, the Underwater Observatory enables you to view more than 300 species of marine life from the underwater chamber windows 8 metre below sea level.

If time permits, explore Yallingup with its stunning coastline, including Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse and Ngilgi Cave. The Margaret River region stretches from Busselton to Augusta. The area has spectacular beaches, exquisite caves, adventurous walks and trails, world class surfing spots, divine cuisine and award winning wine.

Continue along the Bussell Highway, turning right onto Wildwood Road, then turn left onto Abbey’s Farm Road and left onto Caves Road to Cape Lodge. Spend a day of exploring the fantastic wineries and food producers of the region including Vasse Felix and Sandalford Wines. Stop at the Margaret River Chocolate Factory, sample wines, olive oils and fresh produce at Margaret River Providore, taste feta at the Margaret River Dairy Company or buy a take home meal from The Larder. Take a drive to Prevelly, home of the Margaret River Pro surfing titles, or stop at Leeuwin Estate and the Margaret River Fudge Factory.

Cape Lodge, Yallingup Margaret River Region

Accommodation in a Garden View Room for 2 nights – Full Breakfast, Vineyard Estate Tour & Wine tasting

This property is located 8 kilometres from Yallingup and 33 kilometres from the township of Margaret River. Meander down the winding driveway of the intimate country estate and discover why it was voted one of the top 100 hotels in the world. The hotel sits on its own vineyard within 10 hectares of forest, parkland, gardens and lakes. The original homestead contains the lobby, a guest drawing room and gift shop. The accommodation has been designed for luxurious privacy and is a mixture of rooms and suites spread throughout manicured expansive grounds within five detached wings encircling two lakes.

Day 4 Margaret River

Today is free to relax and explore on your own.

Optional Sightseeing (additional cost):

Enjoy a private Margaret River tour with exclusive vehicle and dedicated tour guide. Your itinerary will include a range of guided wine tastings and food experiences. This tour features a customised 6-hour private tour itinerary designed exclusively for you and priority service at Margaret River wineries and attractions.

Day 5 Perth

Drive Margaret River (Cape Lodge) to Perth

255 kms/159 miles (approx. driving time 3 hours)

Travel south of Caves Road turning onto Johnson Road, before turning right onto Puzey Road. Turn left onto Yelverton Road and then travel northeast on the Bussell Highway (State Route 10) to Bunbury. If time permits, explore Yallingup with its stunning coastline, including Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse and Ngilgi Cave. The Margaret River region stretches from Busselton to Augusta. The area has spectacular beaches, exquisite caves, adventurous walks and trails, world class surfing spots, divine cuisine and award winning wine.

Stop at Busselton, Western Australia’s premier seaside resort town and holiday mecca with golden beaches, crystal clear waters and abundant water based activities to take part in. Visit the old wooden Busselton Jetty, almost 2 kms in length. The first stage was built in 1865 and further extensions were made until 1965. Abandoned by the government in 1972 and damaged by fire and cyclones through the years, the jetty is now cared for by a local Jetty Preservation Society and provides a pleasant place to take a stroll, enjoy the fresh clean air, relax, or just dangle a fishing line in the water and hope that no fish come along to disturb your reverie. The Busselton Jetty Underwater Observatory is one of Western Australia’s must-see eco-tourism attractions. Located near the end of the jetty, the Underwater Observatory enables you to view more than 300 species of marine life from the underwater chamber windows 8 metre below sea level.

Stop in Bunbury, well known for its pristine beaches it is a popular holiday spot for Western Australians and offers the visitor a wide range of local tours, cruises and special events. Numerous wildlife parks, art galleries and holiday attractions provide plenty of things to do and for the more active you can swim with the dolphins (November-April) off Koombana beach most mornings. Take a stroll around the streets to spot the street murals (pick up a map from the local visitor centre). There are plenty of cafes and boutiques along the way if you need a rest! Travel along the Forrest Highway (National Highway 1/State Route 2) to Perth.

If time permits, stop in Mandurah, the gateway to the many other attractions of the hinterland including Pinjarra; home of the Hotham Valley Tourist Railway which offers scenic Steam Train excursions throughout the State; and the vast timber forests of the Darling Scarp. Many Western Australians and regular visitors from around the world have built luxury holiday and retirement homes along the waterways and in the modern residential canal developments. Regular boat cruises of the waterways depart daily from the dock adjacent to the Mandurah Tourist Bureau. Watch bottlenose dolphins playing joyfully in the canals, estuary and rivers.

If time permits, visit Fremantle named in Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2016. Fremantle has long been renowned for its eclectic mix of arty and alternative types. Fremantle’s streets buzz with the song of buskers, the sidewalks fill with a wild collection of art and music floats out from trendy cafes and bars. Enjoy a coffee along the ‘Cappuccino Strip’ or trendy Wray Avenue, South Terrace and High Street. Enjoy fish and chips at the Fishing Boat Harbour and stroll along the boardwalk to Bathers Beach. Visit the Fremantle Markets, Fremantle Fishing Boat Harbour, WA Maritime Museum, and Fremantle Prison.

Continue towards Perth, taking the Hay Street exit and follow signs for City Centre. Perth is the capital of Western Australia and sits where the Swan River meets the southwest coast and is home to Kings Park, one of the world’s largest inner city parks. Discover laneway bars in multicultural Northbridge, take a swim in the glassy waters of the Indian Ocean at Cottesloe Beach or take a day trip to meet the quokkas on Rottnest Island.

Return your rental vehicle to the Perth Downtown Depot.

COMO The Treasury, Perth

Accommodation in a Heritage Balcony Room for 1 night – Includes Full Breakfast, in-room private bar replenished daily, welcome drink on arrival.

This property is located in Perth’s 140 year old State Buildings, which form part of the Cathedral Square development. This is one of the most significant heritage precincts in Western Australia, revitalised by leading architect, Kerry Hill. It is 650 metres to Barrack Street Jetty and 450 metres to Elizabeth Quay. The elegant and contemporary styled guest rooms and suites feature original high ceilings, cornicing, handcrafted European furniture, oversized windows, German deep-form Kaldewei Duo bathtubs, travertine stone tiles, twin vanities, heated floors and towel rails and balconies. Facilities include a lounge and library, which provide a social hub for guests and locals.

Day 6 Broome

Perth City Hotel to Domestic Airport – Private Car/Driver Transfer

Depart Perth/Arrive Broome

Your flight today is not included in your Southern World arrangements.

Where the red dirt meets the ocean, colourful Broome beckons travellers from around Australia and the world. Once a sleepy outback pearling town, Broome has long been renowned for its relaxed atmosphere and unique character. The town is surrounded by the tropical turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean, with the white sandy stretch of Cable Beach contrasting with the red rocks of Gantheaume Point and the dusky sands of Roebuck Bay. Learn about the rough and tumble early days of pearling, when Broome’s name was known the world over for the size and quality of its mother of pearl. 

Shared Transfer Airport to Broome Cable Beach Hotels

Operated by Broome Transit

Oaks Cable Beach Resort

Accommodation in a One Bedroom Apartment for 2 nights – Room Only

This resort is a 10-minute walk from the pristine sands of Cable Beach, 5-minute drive from Chinatown and the heart of Broome, and Roebuck Bay is a 12-minute drive away. It features studio and self contained apartments which have elegant modern designs that draw on traditional Broome architecture and colours. The beautifully appointed self-contained apartments are set around tropical lagoon pools, with the Kimberley region at your back door and have a covered outside courtyard or balcony areas.

Day 7 Broome

This morning is at leisure and an opportunity to do some independent exploring, or just relax.

Kimberley Wild Expeditions, Broome

Afternoon Broome Sights – Sparkling Sunset – Shared Small Group Tour

Inclusions: Hotel pick up and drop off, ​beer tasting, pearl appreciation talk, a glass of sparkling wine.

Your 6 hour tour begins in Chinatown, hearing fascinating stories of this colourful precinct. Learn about the ancient art of pearling from one of the local pearl producers, Cygnet Bay, and enjoy a historical sound show at the famous Sun Pictures, the worlds oldest operating open air picture garden (now listed in the Guinness World Records). You will then take a drive through Old Broome to view typical Broome architecture and old Pearling Masters homes then view the aqua waters of Roebuck Bay at Town Beach and learn of Broome’s One Day War. We then stop at Matsos Broome Brewery to sample their hand made ales and famous ginger beer (complimentary tasting included). Afterwards, visit the tranquil Japanese Cemetery and take an easy paced walk at Gantheaume Point known for dinosaur footprints and the story of Anastasia’s Pool. Then you will drive down onto Cable Beach for sunset (subject to beach conditions). Relax and enjoy a stroll, swim or light refreshments (included) as you watch the sun disappear into the horizon. At the completion of your tour, you will be transferred to your Broome accommodation.

Day 8 Broome

True North Adventure Cruises, Broome

7 Night Kimberley Snapshot – Ocean Class Cabin – Shared Cruise

Departs: Saturday

Arrives: Saturday

Inclusions:

Hotel pick up and drop off, all Australian-cuisine dining and non-alcoholic beverages, activities as outlined in itinerary, park permits and port charges.

Exclusions:

Scenic helicopter flights, visas, merchandise and alcohol and gratuities. 

Your ‘Welcome Aboard’ the magnificent TRUE NORTH is in the pearling port of Broome. Embarkation is at 5.00pm – time for a cocktail with your fellow adventurers before departing at approximately 6.30pm. Dinner is served shortly after leaving port for the overnight cruise to Yampi Sound.

Day 9 Horizontal Falls

Awake to the majestic Kimberley and savour an irresistible TRUE NORTH breakfast as we glide past Cockatoo and Koolan Islands – our attentive crew will be happy to introduce the colourful histories of both! Then it’s time to ‘personally’ introduce you to a Kimberley icon – The Horizontal Falls. Experience the awesome power of the region’s huge tidal range in an exhilarating tender ride and then climb aboard your air conditioned helicopter (additional cost) for a view of the falls that very few experience! Take a refreshing swim and then walk on the squeaky white sands of Silica Beach. Or join one of the adventure boats on a sightseeing expedition to Whirlpool Pass, an aptly named further demonstration of the Kimberley’s powerful tides. Before you know it, your first day onboard will be coming to an end – but there’s still time to select a fi ne wine and to enjoy a leisurely evening meal as we cruise to Doubtful Bay.

Day 10 The Sale River & Montgomery Reef

This morning is devoted to exploring the Sale River. Join naturalists and adventurers alike as we ‘ride the tide’ on a classic river expedition! For those who can’t wait one minute longer, the mouth of the Sale offers the first opportunity to ‘land a barra’! Or, take-off for a heli-fishing adventure (additional cost) to a rarely fished spot where the fresh meets the salt! Enjoy lunch as we weigh anchor and cruise for another Kimberley icon – Montgomery Reef! Montgomery is a unique ecosystem that must be seen to be believed – and see it you will – as 140 square miles of coral reef rises out of the ocean right before your very eyes! Water cascades from the reef as the tide falls exposing a privileged glimpse of another world! Turtles, dugong, crocodiles and every imaginable sea creature abound and the helicopter (additional cost) puts all in perspective!

Day 11 Prince Regent River & King Cascade

The scenery will astound and there are some not-to-be-missed fishing spots as the TRUE NORTH graces the majestic Prince Regent River. This morning’s target species include delectable mangrove jack and fingermark bream. At King Cascade we will manoeuvre the TRUE NORTH right under the falls. Then it’s time for more ‘adventure in the tender’ – a chance to stretch the laces on your hiking boots and an opportunity to swim in yet another picture perfect billabong, or perhaps you’d like to venture further upriver to visit the spectacular ‘Amphitheatre’ waterfall. The helicopter (additional cost) will be popular again when the first group of intrepid explorers returns from Jurassic Park!

Day 12 Hunter River

If you think the Regent was good – wait till you see the Hunter! With stunning red cliff s set behind rainforest and mangroves – the Hunter River is yet another awesome setting for fishing, mud crabbing, bird watching and just simply exploring! Enjoy an exhilarating hike to the hidden Jackson Falls and there’s even more splendour from the helicopter (additional cost) ! Hopefully we’ll have time for a sunset drink on Naturaliste Island before an overnight cruise to Vansittart Bay.

Day 13 Vansittart Bay & Koolama Bay

Today there will be an opportunity to see the “Bradshaws” – ancient rock art that pre-dates other examples of Aboriginal culture. In fact, they are possibly the oldest ‘paintings’ known to man. Vansittart Bay also has a reputation for producing monster mackerel! The heli-picnic (additional cost) at Eagle Falls is always a ‘big hit’ – enjoy a sumptuous picnic lunch amidst breathtaking scenery. The tenders will also be busy exploring the local beaches and creeks. Overnight we cruise to Koolama Bay.

Day 14 The King George Falls

Yet another mighty Kimberley river – The King George! As soon as the tide is high enough, we’ll cross the sand bars at the mouth to reveal even more breathtaking river vista. Then our journey upstream will take us to the very ‘jewel in the crown’ – The King George Falls. Here we anchor at the base of the Twin Falls and you will find endless places to explore. Take the helicopter (additional cost) to the top of the falls for another highlight. Just the thought of leaving this magnificence will inspire mutiny! Learn about the bombing of a state-ship during WWII, then take a stroll at Tranquil Bay before we continue onto the frontier port of Wyndham.

Day 15 Kununurra

Kununurra puts you at the heart of the East Kimberley action. Take a helicopter flight over one of the world’s most unique ranges – the Bungle Bungle Range. Cruise the wildlife rich waters of a man-made lake so huge it’s classed as an inland sea. Follow in the tracks of pioneering legends along the Gibb River Road, chase the mighty barramundi, or gain a true connection to country with one of the oldest surviving cultures on Earth.

Kununurra Country Club Resort, Kununurra, The Kimberley

Accommodation in a King Room for 2 nights – Includes Full Breakfast and Shared Transfers to and from Kununurrra Airport.

This property is located in the centre of Kununurra and 3 kilometres from the airport. The modern and stylish rooms are set amongst lush tropical gardens and feature either tile or wooden floorboards.

 

Day 16 Kununurra

Triple J Tours, Kununurra, The Kimberley

Afternoon Ord River Explorer with Sunset Cruise – Shared Tour

Inclusions: Hotel pickup and dropoff

Your 6 hour tour commences with a transfer from your hotel to the Marina where you will board your boat. Cruising this spectacular waterway, you will marvel at the spectacular scenery, wildlife, flora and fauna found along the way and maybe even spot a crocodile. Remaining on the boat at the base of the Ord Top Dam, you will cruise back towards Kununurra. Enjoy afternoon tea at a riverside camp. Take in a colourful East Kimberley sunset before docking back at the Marina and for the coach transfer to your Kununurra accommodation.

Note: Please have lunch prior to departure.

Day 17 Kununurra

Depart Kununurra

Courtesy transfer from the hotel to Kununurra airport.

Accommodation
Perth
COMO The Treasury
Margaret River
Cape Lodge
Broome
Oaks Cable Beach Resort
Kununurra
Kununurra Country Club Resort